Vickers Design Group is seeking a relationship-driven business development leader to grow our architecture and interior design practice in Atlanta, GA. The right person brings established, trusted relationships across the local commercial real estate and business community and knows how to turn those relationships into relevant introductions, qualified opportunities, and long-term clients. This is a hands-on role for a self-starter who creates momentum without waiting for leads or direction. Working closely with the CEO and the Directors of Architecture and Interiors, this person will develop targeted accounts, represent VDG in the market, and help the team win work that fits the firm's expertise and capacity. The role covers corporate interiors, commercial, retail, restaurant, multifamily, senior living, and sports and entertainment opportunities.
Responsibilities- Use your existing Atlanta relationships with owners, developers, tenant representatives, brokers, project managers, general contractors, and other decision makers to open doors for VDG.
- Build new relationships deliberately through meetings, introductions, project intelligence, and participation in relevant Atlanta industry organizations and events.
- Understand prospective clients' real estate, workplace, brand, operational, schedule, and budget goals; identify where VDG's architecture and interior design services can solve a specific need.
- Develop and execute an Atlanta business development plan with target clients, market sectors, relationship owners, specific next steps, and measurable opportunity goals.
- Lead the pursuit process from early qualification through interview and selection, coordinating the CEO, directors, designers, and marketing team on win strategy, RFQs, RFPs, and presentations.
- Maintain existing client relationships, identify repeat work, and arrange timely follow-up after meetings, proposals, and completed projects.
- Track contacts, activity, opportunities, next steps, and pipeline status accurately in the firm's CRM; report meaningful progress and barriers to leadership.
- Monitor Atlanta development, leasing, tenant improvement, and construction activity to identify projects early and recommend partners or teaming arrangements.
- Lead regular business development discussions and help technical leaders build and maintain their own client relationships.
Requirements- A strong, active network in the Atlanta market and a record of converting relationships into opportunities and awarded work. Be prepared to describe the relationships you would bring and the types of projects you have helped win.
- Working knowledge of architecture and interior design services, project phases, delivery methods, and how owners select design firms. Ability to discuss design and technical capabilities credibly without overstating your role as a designer.
- Relevant business development experience in architecture, interiors, commercial real estate, construction, or a closely related field. Experience spanning both architecture and interior design is strongly preferred.
- A self-directed approach: you set priorities, initiate outreach, follow through consistently, and remain accountable for results with limited supervision.
- Sound judgment about project fit, client needs, decision makers, and when to involve VDG's design and technical leaders.
- Clear writing and confident in-person communication, with experience contributing to proposals and presentations.
- Comfort with CRM tools, pipeline reporting, and measurable activity and opportunity goals.
- Ability to attend local meetings and industry events, with occasional travel as needed.
Benefits- Competitive compensation package.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Retirement savings plan with company match.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Flexible work environment and supportive company culture.
- Paid time off and holidays.
